C-SSRS Virtual Training

Learn how to use the Columbia – Suicide Severity Rating Scale Screener (C-SSRS)!

The C-SSRS/”The Columbia” is a few simple questions about suicidal thoughts and behavior that empower communities, families and individuals to find people who are at risk and prevent tragedies before they happen. It tells the user whether a next step is needed, and provides setting-specific recommendations for how to help someone stay safe from suicide.

• Simple: You can ask as few as three to six questions, with no mental health training required to ask them.
• Effective: Experience shows that the scale uniquely identifies those who would otherwise be missed.
• Efficient: Use of the scale redirects resources to where they are needed most, preventing unnecessary interventions that are often costly, traumatic, and lead to disengagement from the needed care. The C-SSRS provides evidence-based thresholds to connect those at risk to the right level of care.
• The Most Evidence-Supported: The scale originated in a NIMH treatment study, and generated an unprecedented amount of research that validates the questions.
• Free: The screener is available at no cost.